Eager Scarlets Head For Bath

THE Scarlets have named a 24-man squad for their friendly visit to Bath (Friday, August 28, kick-off 6.30pm).

Changes to the starting XV from last Saturday's home tussle with the West Country outfit include a return for Wales prop Iestyn Thomas.

Rob Higgitt comes in at outside centre and new skipper Mark Jones makes his first start of the season, teaming up for the first time with Scotland cap Sean Lamont on the opposite wing.

Scarlets team manager Garan Evans said: "Last weekend's game against Bath at Parc y Scarlets was a useful exercise and we expect to step up a gear this weekend.

"We hope to raise the intensity and look forward to trying out a few more new combinations. Bath will provide another strong test as we look forward to our first Magners League game the following weekend.

"There's a great tradition of rivalry between the Scarlets and Bath - and we're looking forward to renewing those acquaintances at the Rec."